Makeractors

Makeractors are a type of performer who integrate making or crafting into their performance. This can manifest in various ways, from creating props and costumes on stage to actively constructing elements of the performance environment as part of the artistic process. The term often refers to individuals or groups who blur the lines between the artist, the artisan, and the actor.

The practice of makeractors can be seen in diverse artistic disciplines. In contemporary theatre, some productions might feature actors who build set pieces or manipulate found objects to tell a story. Performance art often incorporates the act of creation as a central theme, with the artist's hands-on involvement in constructing or altering objects being a key component of the work. Similarly, some forms of puppetry involve the puppeteer not only manipulating the puppet but also having designed and built it themselves.

Makeractors often emphasize the physicality of creation and the visible process of making. This can add a layer of authenticity and directness to their performances, allowing audiences to witness the transformation of raw materials into meaningful objects or scenes. The skills involved can range from traditional crafts like woodworking and sewing to more contemporary techniques such as 3D printing and electronics. The focus is typically on the integration of the making process as an integral part of the narrative or conceptual framework of the performance, rather than simply a behind-the-scenes activity.